As with all discussion forums, structure is key to the proper functioning of this space. When responding to others, quote only the necessary portion of their original to improve readability. Also be sure that responses do not include the entirety of the original message from the previous post.
Standard rules of grammar and organization apply here. Provide a clear, central idea to guide your paragraphs, and make sure that your spelling and language are befitting the aims of the course.
Each week, the forums will be evaluated according to the following scale, which will be applied to both original and response posts:
20 = excellent post with a clear sense of purpose and articulated ideas as expressed in multiple, organized paragraphs. Support appears in carefully interpreted direct quotations and/or paraphrase, either of which shows a critical engagement with the text. Syntax is concise and style is free of grammatical error.
16-19 = good post with occasional references to the text that suggests understanding of the primary material. Paragraph(s) are focused but leave some questions unanswered.
10-15 = average post with general comments about the readings to suggest a superficial reading at best. Development is lacking or only peripherally linked to the primary materials.
9 or less = insufficient engagement with the texts or ideas. Grammar errors abound.
